The Aria Vault’s crystal dome trembled as Clara, Elise’s orchestra mate and the Silent Maestro, stood outside, her baton weaving a silent spell. Elise’s violin glowed, its melody fighting the curse’s silence, but Clara’s Silencers battered the doors. Lena’s baton held them back, and Theo’s lute strummed a protective gust, but Aria’s glow dimmed. “Elise, the vault’s songs are Cantara’s heart!” the soundspirit chimed. “Protect them!”

Elise’s heart raced. Clara—quiet, talented Clara—had sat beside her in orchestra, sharing shy smiles. How was she the Maestro? Her mark pulsed, and her violin hummed, recalling Clara’s envy when Elise played her own compositions. Had that sparked this?

“We can’t let her take the songs,” Lena said, her voice strained. “Elise, weave a barrier!”

Elise nodded, but fear gripped her. Theo stepped close, his hand on her cheek. “You’re stronger than her, Elise,” he said, his eyes fierce. “Play for us.” His lips met hers, deep and urgent, and Elise melted, her hands tangling in his hair. His touch slid to her waist, warm and possessive, igniting a fire that chased her doubts. The kiss promised they’d face anything together.

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They pulled apart, breathless, and Elise played, her melody weaving a shield around the vault. The doors held, but Clara’s baton twisted, muting Elise’s notes. “You stole my spotlight, Elise,” Clara hissed. “Your songs should’ve been mine!”

Elise’s heart ached—Clara’s jealousy had fueled the curse. She played a new melody, one she’d shared with Clara, weaving hope into it. Clara hesitated, her baton faltering, but the Silencers broke through, and the vault shook. Theo fought, his lute shattering a Silencer, but Clara’s spell hit Elise, silencing her violin.

Aria chimed, “Your heart, Elise! Sing!” Elise sang, her voice raw but true, breaking the silence. The vault’s orbs glowed, and Clara screamed, her spell weakening. But a new figure appeared—a shadow of Elise, playing her melody. Was it the curse’s heart, and what did it want with her music?

Cliffhanger: Who is Elise’s shadowy double, and can she save the vault’s songs from Clara’s curse?

Chapter 6: The Betrayer’s Tune

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